How Does Telegram Comply with GDPR Regarding User Data in the EU?

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Telegram, a popular cloud-based messaging platform, has experienced significant growth across Europe, prompting scrutiny over how it handles personal data. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), enforced by the European Union (EU) since May 2018, sets strict rules for data protection and privacy. This article explores how Telegram aligns its operations with GDPR requirements regarding user data in the EU.

Data Collection and Minimization
Telegram limits the data it collects from users. At telegram data registration, users only need to provide a phone number, which is used for account verification. Telegram claims it does not require users to provide additional personal information such as names, email addresses, or profile photos—though users can voluntarily provide these. According to GDPR principles of data minimization and purpose limitation, this approach helps reduce unnecessary data collection.

Telegram also supports self-destructing messages and auto-deleting accounts after periods of inactivity. These features contribute to minimizing the retention of personal data, aligning with GDPR’s requirement to keep data no longer than necessary.

Data Processing and Legal Basis
Under GDPR, data controllers must have a lawful basis for processing personal data. Telegram states in its Privacy Policy that it processes user data based on legitimate interests (e.g., to combat spam and abuse), contractual necessity (e.g., to deliver messages), and compliance with legal obligations.

Telegram claims that it does not use user data for targeted advertising, a common GDPR concern. It also encrypts all cloud chats using server-client encryption and offers end-to-end encryption for Secret Chats, enhancing data security and compliance with GDPR’s integrity and confidentiality obligations.

Data Storage and International Transfers
Telegram stores its data on distributed servers located in different jurisdictions, but it does not disclose the exact locations. While this raises questions under GDPR's data transfer rules, Telegram asserts it has implemented adequate safeguards for data that leaves the EU, such as Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs).

Notably, Telegram has been under investigation in some EU countries for failing to fully clarify its data processing practices and server infrastructure. Despite these concerns, it maintains that it adheres to GDPR standards and cooperates with European data protection authorities when requested.

User Rights and Transparency
One of GDPR’s core pillars is user rights, including access, rectification, erasure (right to be forgotten), data portability, and the right to object. Telegram provides users with access to their data through its “Privacy and Security” settings and via its “Export Data” tool. Users can delete their accounts at any time, thereby removing their data from Telegram’s servers.

Telegram’s privacy policy outlines the types of data collected and the purposes for which they are used. However, critics argue the policy lacks detailed information about how data is handled, especially regarding server locations and third-party access.

Conclusion
Telegram takes several steps to align with GDPR requirements, including minimal data collection, encrypted messaging, and user-controlled data retention. While it provides tools to help users exercise their rights under GDPR, questions remain about its transparency and international data transfers. As EU data protection authorities continue to monitor messaging apps, Telegram’s compliance practices will likely remain under scrutiny.